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Web Developers

Under the title Web Developers, workers develop and implement websites, web applications, application databases, and interactive web interfaces. O*NET rates it as medium preparation, which usually means one or two years of vocational training, an apprenticeship or an associate’s degree. It leans on programming, critical thinking, and reading comprehension. One core duty is to write supporting code for Web applications or Web sites. Interest ratings put Conventional on top at 5.0 out of 7 and Investigative second, so the code is CIA and the day leans toward orderly work with data, records and clear procedures. People who want orderly work with data, records and clear procedures usually fit better here than those who need helping, teaching or caring for people.

What they do

Develop and implement websites, web applications, application databases, and interactive web interfaces. Evaluate code to ensure that it is properly structured, meets industry standards, and is compatible with browsers and devices. Optimize website performance, scalability, and server-side code and processes. May develop website infrastructure and integrate websites with other computer applications.

Main tasks

  • Write supporting code for Web applications or Web sites.
  • Design, build, or maintain Web sites, using authoring or scripting languages, content creation tools, management tools, and digital media.
  • Back up files from Web sites to local directories for instant recovery in case of problems.
  • Select programming languages, design tools, or applications.
  • Evaluate code to ensure that it is valid, is properly structured, meets industry standards, and is compatible with browsers, devices, or operating systems.
  • Develop databases that support Web applications and Web sites.

Skills

  • Programming
  • Critical Thinking
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Operations Analysis
  • Complex Problem Solving
  • Active Listening

Who this career fits

May suit you if

  • You like clear rules and getting the details right.
  • You enjoy working out why something happens, not just what happened.
  • You are willing to put in a year or two of focused training.
  • You are comfortable relying on programming and critical thinking.

May not suit you if

  • You get restless with routine, records and exact procedures.
  • You want helping people to be at the center of your work. Social rates 2.2 out of 7 here.
  • You need to start within a few months, with no training period.

Interest profile

O*NET rates each occupation from 1 to 7 on six interest types. The code CIA takes the three highest, and Conventional comes first here.

Preparation

Medium preparation. Expect vocational school, an apprenticeship, related experience or an associate’s degree, usually one or two years in total.

Most-reported requirement in the O*NET survey: Bachelor's Degree. This reflects what workers reported most often and is not a legal minimum. Licensing rules can differ by state or industry, so confirm what applies where you plan to work.

Also called

  • Technology Applications Engineer
  • Web Architect
  • Web Design Specialist
  • Web Developer
  • Webmaster

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This page includes information from the O*NET 31.0 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.